Fearing Loss of Security Deposit, They Demand Referendum First

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, “We believe that holding the national election and referendum together would reduce expenses. But they want the referendum first because if the vote is held earlier, they will lose their security deposits—they won’t survive politically.”

He made these remarks on Sunday while addressing a gathering with residents of Jagannathpur Union at Daulatpur Girls High School field in Thakurgaon Sadar upazila.

Mirza Fakhrul said that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s fleeing the country on August 5 proved that she had no compassion for her party workers or the people of the country. “She abandoned her followers helplessly. We were born on this soil, live here, share joys and sorrows here, and when we die, we will die here. We will never leave this land,” he added.

Speaking of his personal sacrifices, he said, “I have endured a lot. You all know I have been imprisoned 11 times. The police kept me for five days in a cell meant for death row prisoners. By your prayers and Allah’s mercy, I was released.”

Condemning the injustice done to Khaleda Zia, he said, “Our leader has been imprisoned for six years without any crime. False cases have been filed against 6 million of our members.”

Regarding the upcoming election, he asked party activists, “The election is ahead. Will you cast your votes? Is the voting system ready? Will everyone be able to vote?” After receiving positive responses, he said, “How many symbols this time? Only one—paddy sheaf. The boat is not visible this time. The scales symbol will also contest. So, you must choose between the paddy sheaf and the scales.”

Highlighting the country’s economic distress, he said, “Farmers suffered losses this year in rice and potatoes. They are not taking potatoes out of cold storage, meaning farming is no longer profitable.”

He alleged, “The interim government does not understand people’s suffering. When BNP comes to power, two special cards will be introduced—one for mothers and one for farmers. Mothers will be able to buy rice, lentils, oil, and salt at fair prices and receive healthcare. Farmers will get fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation, and fair crop prices through these cards.”

Commenting on the current political situation, he said, “One group says a referendum must be held before the election. Do ordinary people understand these things?” Responding to the crowd’s reaction, he said, “Referendum, certificate—do we understand these things? No. Educated elites are bringing these issues and imposing them on us.”

He added, “They agree with many of BNP’s reform proposals but refuse to join Parliament. Yet, Parliament is where debates, voting, and lawmaking happen.”

On the issue of genocide, he said, “In July and August 2024, students were shot dead—this was genocide. There was also genocide during the 1971 Liberation War. The only difference is that back then, Pakistani forces carried it out with local collaborators, while this time, Sheikh Hasina used her administration to kill our boys.”

Khaborwala/TSN